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Wavelength Formula:
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Wavelength (λ) is the distance between successive crests of a wave, especially points in a sound wave or electromagnetic wave. It is inversely proportional to frequency and is a fundamental property of waves.
The calculator uses the wavelength formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula shows that wavelength decreases as frequency increases, and vice versa, with the speed of light as the constant of proportionality.
Details: Calculating wavelength is essential in physics, engineering, telecommunications, and astronomy for understanding wave behavior, designing antennas, and analyzing electromagnetic spectra.
Tips: Enter frequency in Hertz (Hz). The value must be valid (frequency > 0). The calculator will automatically compute the wavelength in meters.
Q1: Why is the speed of light used in this formula?
A: For electromagnetic waves (including light, radio waves, etc.), the speed of propagation is the speed of light in a vacuum, which is approximately 3×10⁸ m/s.
Q2: Does this formula work for all types of waves?
A: This specific formula with the speed of light applies to electromagnetic waves. For other waves (sound, water waves), the formula is similar but uses the appropriate speed of propagation for that medium.
Q3: What are typical wavelength ranges?
A: Radio waves can have wavelengths from millimeters to kilometers, visible light from 380-750 nanometers, and gamma rays have wavelengths smaller than atoms.
Q4: How does wavelength relate to energy?
A: For electromagnetic waves, shorter wavelengths correspond to higher energy photons according to the formula E = hc/λ, where h is Planck's constant.
Q5: Can I calculate frequency from wavelength?
A: Yes, you can rearrange the formula: f = c/λ, where c is the speed of light and λ is the wavelength.